The game of tempestuous seduction is front and center in this provocative erotic drama, directed by the prolific and award-winning film writer and director, Joey Reyes. His exquisite attention to detail is remarkably showcased through how he wove the film’s sequences, and how he allowed the characters to shine through dialogue and his artistic direction. 

Secrets follow the live-in couple, Christian (Benz Sangalang) and Janine (Janelle Tee), whose relationship has been on the rocks. Their trip to a coastal town in a far province is hinged on the hope of fixing their problem. Arriving at the quiet and sleepy Ponciano Beach Resort, the couple meets the industrious caretakers of the establishment: the mute Elena (Sherry Lara) and her husband, Mang Rading (Ku Aquino). Elena still hears, and she communicates through writing her thoughts on paper.

On their first day at the Ponciano’s, they get introduced to Elena’s nephew, Leo (Felix Roco), who is also staying at the resort to spend his vacation from his overseas work. Christian promptly clicks with Leo and his liberated partner, Felina (Denise Esteban), who offers him wild activities that Janine repeatedly disapproves of.

Reyes makes sure that the mesmerizing beauty of his film’s setting is integrated seamlessly with the story he is telling. With his powerful direction, Secrets produces visual shots that further make the film’s script more absorbing. There are a few detours that somewhat undermine the overall story, but ones too insignificant to make it completely bland. The final twist may not be that predictable, but the execution does not have the hooks for it to be appreciated. The violence, which is a staple in almost every Vivamax flick, comes in the last few minutes of the film, which may be a bit disorienting to some, but serves its purpose, nevertheless.